Relative says dad, sons shot ICE agent out of fear

Relative says dad, sons shot ICE agent out of fear

HARGILL, Texas - A relative of a father and two sons accused of shooting a federal immigration agent say they acted out of fear when they opened fire outside their home.

Amparo Ramirez told the San Antonio Express-News the three thought someone was breaking into their rural home along the Texas border. Pedro Alvarez and his sons, ages 18 and 16, were arrested after shooting this week at an Immigrations and Customs Enforcement agent parked outside.

Ramirez, the family matriarch, told the newspaper that agent Kelton Harrison never identified himself. She also says ICE never told home owners the agency was conducting surveillance nearby.

Prosecutors say Harrison had been watching early Tuesday for an anticipated drug deal. He was shot in the back, and ICE says his condition is improving.